| Etrog Citron | |
| Citrus medica var. Etrog | |
| a.k.a. Ethrog Citron |
Medium to large sized bumpy yellow skinned citrus having a very acidic flavor. Primarily the skin is used, and the fruit plays a role in the Jewish Feast of the Tabernacles.
Description: Small
to medium sized tree, usually only 10-20ft high.
Hardiness: Trees are somewhat
sensitive to freezes and grow best in areas having only limited frosts
and freezes. They will stand below freezing temperatures for short periods
of time, although the fruit can be damaged.
Growing Environment: Trees do well in subtropical and tropical environments. Water regularly, though less during colder months. Trees do not like standing water.
etrog flower cluster, with blooming flower
Propagation: By grafts and seeds. Citrons for use in religious ceremonies must not be grafted or budded onto other citrus rootstock.
Uses: The peel is candied and used in a variety of desserts. The pulp can be eaten, but is often too acidic for many people.
Native Range: The origin of the citron is unknown, but it was the first cultivated citrus fruit, with records dating back to 4000 B.C. It was a common fruit in the Meditteranean region, and today is cultivated primarily in Sicily, Corsica, and Crete, Greece, Israel, as well as a number of Central and South American countries. Fruits have been known to cost $10-$50 a pound in the United States, sold for religious purposes.